This is an intelligently programmed CD, reversing the traditional concert sequence of overture-concerto-symphony as have other Chandos discs (for instance of Hindemith – including the Symphony in E flat, 10/92 – and Kaipainen, 2/96). Prior to encountering the present recording, I had heard only one piece by Takashi Yoshimatsu (b. 1953), who is not otherwise represented in The Gramophone Classical Catalogue. He strikes me as a sort of oriental Hovhaness, who looks to North (and Latin) America for exotic inspiration. His accomplished, brightly coloured music is never less than engaging, if occasionally prolix, though I doubt whether an innocent ear would identify it as Japanese.
Much as I enjoyed At terra (1991-2), I wish the composer had not called it a symphony. It is a very effective and exciting suite, and might have made a fine concerto for the cello, which has several important solos (exquisitely delivered by Peter Dixon), but by no stretch of the imagination is it a symphony. The Guitar Concerto (1981) is a welcome addition to a still meagre repertoire, the ecologically minded Threnody to Toki (mourning the extinction in the wild of a rare bird) rather less compelling. Sound and performance quality are uniformly excellent; a very enjoyable disc.'